TUT National Diploma in Dental Technology

Crafting Smiles: National Diploma in Dental Technology

Have you ever wondered about the art and science behind crafting perfect smiles? If you have an eye for detail and a passion for oral health, the National Diploma in Dental Technology could be your path to a rewarding and creative career. Let’s explore this qualification and what it offers.

A Qualification That Matters

Qualification Code: NDDT96 – NQF Level 6

Offered at Pretoria Campus

Before we dive into the details, here’s an important update for all prospective applicants: Starting in 2020, this qualification will be replaced by programs aligned with the new Higher Education Qualification Sub-Framework. For the latest information on these programs, please visit the university’s website.

Admission Requirements and Selection Criteria

For applicants who obtained a Senior Certificate before 2008, the admission requirements are as follows:

• A Senior Certificate or equivalent with a pass at Standard Grade in one of the following minimum combinations: Mathematics and Physical Science, or Mathematics and Biology or Physiology, or Physical Science and Biology or Physiology.

Selection criteria follow the guidelines of the South African Dental Technicians Council and involve four steps with different weightings:

• Step 1: Academic performance (40%)
• Step 2: Potential assessment (20%)
• Step 3: Dexterity test (30%)
• Step 4: Personal interview (10%)

For applicants who obtained a National Senior Certificate in or after 2008:

• A National Senior Certificate with a bachelor’s degree or a diploma endorsement, or an equivalent qualification.
• Achievement level of at least 4 for English (home language or first additional language) and 3 for Mathematics (or 4 for Mathematical Literacy) and 3 for Life Sciences or 3 for Physical Sciences.

Selection criteria also involve the same four steps as mentioned earlier, with different weightings.

Your Educational Journey

The National Diploma in Dental Technology is a three-year program with day classes and intake available in January only. Exclusion and readmission policies follow the university’s regulations, and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) information is available for eligible candidates.

Students pursuing this qualification should be aware of various additional requirements, including compulsory immunization against Hepatitis B, access to computers and the Internet, registration with the South African Dental Technicians Council (facilitated by the department), and obtaining approved first-aid certificates before the third-year examinations. Students are also responsible for purchasing personal instruments, costing approximately R30,000.

Special Qualification Rules

Special qualification rules apply, and accepted students will receive these rules with their acceptance letters. Familiarizing oneself with these rules is crucial.

Curriculum Overview

In the first year, you’ll cover subjects like Applied Dental Technology, Communication, Dental Materials Science, Dental Technology Theory, Tooth Morphology, and Oral Anatomy.

In the second year, you’ll delve deeper into subjects like Applied Dental Technology II, Dental Materials Science II, Dental Technology Theory II, and Jurisprudence.

Finally, in the third year, you’ll continue with subjects such as Applied Dental Technology III, Business Practice I, Dental Materials Science III, and Dental Technology Theory III.

Subject/Module Information

The syllabus content is subject to change to accommodate industry changes, ensuring that you receive up-to-date and relevant training. Topics include dental materials, oral anatomy, tooth morphology, dental technology theory, and more, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of dental technology.

If you’re passionate about making a difference in oral health and creating beautiful smiles, the National Diploma in Dental Technology could be your gateway to a fulfilling career. Stay updated with the latest information on the university’s website and embark on this exciting journey to craft smiles that change lives.